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Endoh Taiki's Reviews

       10 Jun 2008 at 11:10 am
    Category: Italian
    feizhu feizhu says:

    Along Club Street lies this quaint little colonial style building that houses one of Singapore's well known Italian Restaurant - Senso Ristorante & Bar. Established in 2000, Senso has received numerous awards and nominations for its ambience, food and wine. So it was imperative that we (my gf and I) tried out this place! Reservations weren't made as it was a rather last minute decision and we didn't think it would be too difficult to get a seat on a Sunday evening (Actually we were torn between eating at Senso and Grand Shanghai, but since the latter didn't answer my calls, we chose the former). We got there at about 645pm and were surprised to find that it only opened for dinner at 7pm. Anyway, it was but a short wait and at the stroke of 7, we were shown to our table in the courtyard. Please let me say this. We didn't opt to sit in the courtyard, but there wasn't a choice as we didn't meet the dress code.

    It would be almost criminal not to dedicate at least a paragraph to the very pretty courtyard. From the moment I stepped in, it almost felt like I had been transported right into the heart of a warmly lit Tuscan courtyard in Italy, complete with a Greek statue that adorns the gardens. This is definitely one place you must see! There are strong fans around to help the customers keep cool whilst dining. However, it can get quite sticky because of the humid nature of Singapore's weather. The air conditioned interior was rather pleasing as well, with hues of orange and touches of elegance coupled with dim lighting. Decor aside, we had the Mozzarella for starters and the Frutti Di Mare and the Ossobuco for mains. On a side note, we had the chef divide everything up into 2 individual portions so that we could share.

    The meal started off with a complementary serving of warm bread and bread sticks, with Chick Pea Puree as a dip. I personally found the bread sticks a little too hard for me, but it tasted quite good, especially with the Chick Pea Puree. The wheat bread was a little too dry for me. I couldn't make out the other bread, but it had onions on top and tasted soft and appetising. Following the bread was a tiny serving of Chick Pea Salad, complementary as well. I found this quite good as the chick peas had a tinge of zest coupled with the evident taste of the basil leaf. Small serving, but it sure packs a punch!

    Our appetiser, the Mozzarella, was essentially pan fried Buffalo Mozzarella wrapped in Parma Ham, Marinated Raisins and Pine Kernels in Balsamico (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar). The huge chunk of cheese was a little chewy, yet didn't have too strong a cheese taste. Wrap a slice of Parma Ham around it and dip in the sauce (I think the sauce comes from the Marinated Raisins and Pine Kernels in Balsamico. It tasted a little alcoholic.) and you get nothing short of stupendous. It sure didn't look like cheese though, or anything related to it. Little wonder why this is one of Senso's signature dishes.

    With such a wonderful appetiser, we thus looked forward to the mains. The Frutti Di Mare, Carnaroli Risotto with Octopus, Prawns, Mussels, Calamari, fresh Tomato and Basil, was very nicely done without being too heavy on the cream and with the rich texture of the Risotto. It was good, but not fantastic. The Ossobuco, braised Veal shank "Ossobuco" served with mashed Potatoes, Rosemary and Lemon Gremolata was very tender and fibrous, so much so that there was no need to even remove the meat from the bone. The natural Veal taste was very prevalent in this dish, which suited me fine, but people who don't like it might just want to stay away. The accompanying mashed potatoes were soft and had a tinge of butter, but nothing to shout about.

    We racked up a total of $93.24 for a very satisfying meal (for me at least). I was stuffed up so much that I could barely walk, which explains the absence of dessert. This is definitely one place you should bring your date or that special someone to. The ambience alone puts many other fine dining restaurants to shame. Service is excellent and so is the food. What more do you need? Do note that prices are quite steep here, but hey, I reckon every dollar is well spent.


    Rating given:Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5

       09 Jun 2008 at 6:54 pm
    Category: Steakhouses
    Bobo Bobo says:

    Just some background before I begin.. I have ever been to Aston's when it was still in the coffeeshop. I've ever witnessed two mains plus all the sides feeding a family of five with 3 young children. Two mains would stuff me and my friend and there would be leftovers, so you can imagine how large the servings were. The food was also much better than your average western food stall. It was comparable to that of a restaurant. That time I remember that 2 mains would cost less than $20.

    Having been to the previous establishment and seeing all the wonderful reviews here (needless to say) gave me great expectations as I walked into the place. It was close to 5pm and there wasn't the usual queue in front of the place. We stood at the *Please wait to be seated* sign. There were two servers just 1 metre away directly in front of us and it still took 4-5 minutes for them to come over as they were finishing their little joke before they did.

    We were seated in a booth and there was only one other table occupied then. We checked out the menu and soon decided what we wanted.

    I was unhappy when we ordered as the server didn't seem very sure when we asked if the items could be placed separately. We also repeated the sides a number of times as he kept repeating it back to us wrongly. My friend ordered an Iced Latte and the server said ok. But 5 minutes later when my coke arrived, another server told us that they don't serve Iced Lattes but only the hot ones. Urgh

    Food ordered:
    Sirloin Steak (Medium - Well Done)
    The steak came as per ordered. But it wasn't very tasty. The meat didn't have much taste on its own and there wasn't much sauce too. My friend commented that it had a little too much fatty bits for her liking.

    Grilled fish
    This was tasteless actually. One good thing was that it didn't have any fishy smell to it. If I didn't have my trusty ketchup I don't think I would have been able to finish this. And... we raised our hands trying to get their attention for ketchup but no one noticed us. (Reminder: it was quite empty then) So we got up, searched for it and got it for ourselves.

    Fries
    I'd thought these would be the fat fries... well these were neither fat nor thin. but a little too salty though. I read that there was some spice on others' fries but there wasn't any on mine... mmm

    BBQ beans
    It tasted exactly like baked beans from the Heinz can. We felt cheated.

    Steamed Vegetables
    These were alright I guess but what could go wrong with steamed vegetables?

    For some reason I can't remember what the last side order is. We, two girls, managed to clean out our plates so I can't say very much for the servings, can I?

    Anyway the bill came up to $27 for two mains and three drinks. It IS cheap if you consider that it's western food served in a respectable looking restaurant. But the food is really average and service was pretty poor considering there weren't many people. I'm just glad I didn't have to queue to try. At least I know I won't ever have to.


    Rating given:Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5

       09 Jun 2008 at 4:19 pm
    WishBoNe WishBoNe says:

    I went to this cafe twice. The first time, the table and chairs were placed too close to each other. There wasn't really enough space to sit comfortably without hitting the person behind you.

    The second time, the layout and chairs have changed. It's more comfortable. The place can be rather cold for those who cannot stand the cold.

    Groups of about 6 can take the tables that are longer. There are about 4 such tables. The orders are written in the order pad given. Although I found it strange that they didn't check their pencils. The one on the table I was sitting at had a broken lead head.

    The food took quite a long time to arrive, more than 15 minutes for a basket of potato wedges. The cost is rather reasonable compared to the same basket of potato wedges being sold at Cathay counters. I found more wedges in NEbo than at Cathay.

    The staff are very young as this place is catered to the group of ages from 16 - 25. Membership is available to that group age too.

    It isn't that bad and more improvements can be made as it is located next to the cinema and the patrons expect the food to arrive fast enough so that they won't enter the cinema late after that.


    Rating given:Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5

    804. Waffletown   
       08 Jun 2008 at 9:26 pm
    Category: American, Desserts
    feizhu feizhu says:

    Ever since the demise of A&W in Singapore, Waffletown is probably the only fast food outlet in Singapore that serves up fried chicken and waffles in a small unit reminiscent of an old school American diner.

    Located at Balmoral Plaza, the place isn't big and comes with brown table tops and orange chairs affixed to the ground just like A&W in the old days. A very serene sense of nostalgia sets in and one can't help but relish in the comfort it offers.

    2 Piece Chicken Set - The chicken skin was crispy sans the layer of fats beneath, which of course is the lesser of two evils. Meat was moist and juicy and didn't come across as oily as those served up by KFC. Only downside was the seasoning of the chicken, which I personally felt was a little inadequate. The accompanying fries and coleslaw tasted like those ready made ones you can buy off the shelves from any supermarket.

    Waffle with Blueberry and Vanilla Ice Cream & Waffle with Blackberry and Rum and Raisin Ice Cream - Since the place is called waffletown, its really a no brainer that waffles are their specialty. The waffles were very crispy but that in itself presents a problem, to me at least. Crispy waffles aren't moist and my idea of an ideal waffle should be crisp on the outside yet moist and full of bite on the inside. It must also be fragrant. Waffletown's waffles fulfilled the aroma criteria but they were crispy inside out, which made it a little like eating crackers. Fortunately, thats where the toppings and ice cream come into play, lending the waffles with additional flavour and moisture. All in all a good eat.

    At about $6.70 for a 2 piece chicken set that comes with 2 sides and a drink, Waffletown goes for about the same price as KFC. Quality is much higher here though but there is the problem of location.

    See all my pictures here.


    Rating given:Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5

       07 Jun 2008 at 11:32 am
    Category: American, Desserts
    Jeslyn Tee Jeslyn Tee says:

    An Australian-Asian fusion cafe. We felt the design and furnishing looks more like those small family restaurant.

    We were greeted warmly by the service crew at the entrance and guided to a table. Although its "crampy" but very clean and tidy. The crew proceeded to explain that orders are to be taken and paid at the cashier. Nets acceptable.

    Sets inclusive of a main course, soup, dessert and a drink at $14.90 which we loved as its valued for money on the face value.

    Soup:
    Bit blend for taste and had to add pepper.

    Main course:
    Ordered black peppered sirloin ($11.90), Chicken chop (part of set meal). Sirloin was fine though its taste was covered by the sauce which was too spicy for me. Rice that came with the main course was too dry though it still taste quite nice. Chicken chop was fine and tender but the sauce was too blend. At least for the person who ate it.

    Dessert:
    I ordered "Crazy Sue" ($4.50) which was a chocolate and orange flavor cake. Nice blend of both flavors and not too sweet so even when I am full I still can finish the cake. Chocolate walnut that came with the set was also recommended. Commendable, although its a set meal at a low price, the quality and quantity of food wasn't compromised.

    Garlic bread:
    A bit above average though I still prefer the one at "Spaghetti Too" reason being the cheese was not chewy enough and bread not that crispy though its already better than a lot of others I've tried.

    On the whole, the taste of food weren't too great. Above average I would say and definitely valued for money. The quality of customer service was also there and highly satisfactory.


    Rating given:Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5

       07 Jun 2008 at 10:25 am
    Bobo Bobo says:

    I, a fan of desserts and Yami Yoghurt, was more than excited when we walked past Yoguru. The prices are all in Feizhu's review and they seem right. So you can refer to that.

    I was a teeny bit sad when there were only two flavours to choose from. But the lady at the counter mentioned that Original flavour was a little sweeter whereas the YoguBliss one was more sourish so I picked Original.

    There were about 14 toppings to choose from and I took some time with that. So maybe the lack of flavours is a blessing in disguise.I picked out Oreo Crumbs and Cornflakes for $1.80. I think that it was a nice combination in terms of taste as it adds texture to the yoghurt.

    But it was quite messy to eat as the cup overflowed. If you pick one topping it was ok, but two toppings was a little too much and you would risk having it all over yourself when you were done.

    I'd have to agree that Yoguru is sweeter and softer than Yami (although I don't find Yami TOO sourish) and I like how Yoguru is fatfree too. But it really is quite expensive. A regular cup of Yami one topping is $3.75. But I paid $5.10 for my yoguru with two toppings. Note that the price diff between one topping and two isn't very much.

    I would give it 3 and a half stars really... take away half for being more expensive for a slightly smaller serving.


    Rating given:Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5

       06 Jun 2008 at 11:32 pm
    feizhu feizhu says:

    The yoghurt craze is catching on in Singapore with the opening of yoghurt outlets like Frolick and Yoguru. The former currently has 3 outlets in Singapore whereas the latter only has one.

    Located in the still sleepy Kallang Leisure Park, Yoguru has a steady following of fans who swear by the brand's fat free yoghurt which comes in 2 varieties - original and YoguBliss, with the latter comprising of dragonfruit and pomegranate in the mixture. Prices start at $3.30 for a regular cup of original yoghurt to $7.90 for a jumbo take home container. Prices for the YoguBliss are slightly higher, at $3.80 for a regular and $9.30 for a jumbo. Toppings start at $1.20 each. Definitely not cheap.

    Not being a fan of dragonfruit or pomegranate, I had a go at the original with toppings of diced strawberries. To be honest, I'm never liked yoghurt because my tolerance for sour stuff is minimal so it came as quite a surprise that I could actually finish up a whole cup of Yoguru's yoghurt by myself. The yoghurt is much sweeter than any of the other brands of yoghurt that I've tried and the smooth creamy texture reminds me more of ice cream, which is totally different from what you can get from NTUC or Frolick for that matter.

    I like the idea of fat free pseudo ice cream with a sourish tinge enough to continue my patronage.

    See all my pictures here.


    Rating given:Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5

       05 Jun 2008 at 10:51 pm
    Category: Massage
    Bobo Bobo says:

    I've been to this outlet a few times.

    Mind you, in my job we tend to get lots of backaches and stiff necks so a massage once in a while is absolutely necessary. Thank goodness I have some of these nearby. Don't be fooled by places of similiar names! This is one of the early ones boasting of traditional Javanese massage from ages ago.

    I like to get the full body massage Ginger treatment. After a good massage the therapist would cover my body with ginger bits. I'd feel very very very hot and sometimes it even stings. I'd be covered with towels like a wrap, and it will be kept like that for 15-20 minutes. Trust me, it can be quite torturous... But after that your skin will be silky smooth. I have very sensitive skin and my skin was a wreck after my trip to China. It was covered with rash and dried bits all over but after the GInger treatment it was obviously much better! I think with another treatment next week it'll totally clear. Not only that my tummy will seem flatter after the treatment.

    The staff is always polite and they don't make you feel uncomfortable. Also I've yet to meet anyone unskilled there. The prices start from $40 for non-members. Lifetime Membership is $150 and is transferable... Members can also sign two guests in and the guests are entitled to the same discounts.


    Rating given:Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5Rating: 4 out of 5

    809. Hilton Hotel   
       05 Jun 2008 at 3:16 pm
    Category: Hotels
    feizhu feizhu says:

    Attended a wedding tasting lunch at Hilton courtesy of my friend who will be tying the knot later this year.

    Well not much can be said about the interior because it was held in one of the function rooms which are named after countries, with this particular one being Singapore.

    Complimentary Bread - It was a unanimous decision. The bread was good. Served up warm, it exuded a mild fragrance together with a nice crackling sound when I broke off a piece to savour. The soft yet fluffy dough complemented with a thin layer of salted butter was enough to make us request for seconds. And for the record, I had 5 buns, which is definitely a first for me in such situations.

    Gazpacho - I'm honestly not a fan of tomato soup, even more so chilled tomato soup, so I didn't quite take to it. And neither did anyone else around the table. But I personally felt that it could have been stronger on the taste as it did seem a little runny to me.

    Madras Long Grain Rice with Raisin and Almond -
    The good thing about long grain rice is that the grains stay seperate and fluffy after cooking, which was the case in this dish. When eaten with the almond slices and raisins, it made for a nice and light (healthy as well!) rice dish. A pity there weren't enough almonds or raisins to go around so there was quite a bit of rice leftover.

    Roasted Stuffed Duck on Sauteed Sweet Cabbage with Mustad Cream - Ironically, the star of this dish wasn't the duck but the cabbage, which was sauteed to the right softness and flavourful. The duck on the other hand, wasn't exactly duck per se. According to the chef, a mixture of minced chicken, walnut and spinach were used to make the stuffing which was then rolled with a layer of fatty duck skin with some duck meat attached. The result? A highly chewy duck skin which was almost impossible to cut through, probably due to the amount of fats under the skin. The stuffing was still decent though but the skin really spoilt the whole dish.

    Sea Bream with Roots Vegetables in Saffron Cream - The aesthetics of this dish proved to be the sole consolation for this dish, which is sad really. Huge portions aside, the fish meat was seriously tough and I was left wondering if it was really fish because the texture said otherwise. The saffron cream sauce was also a tad weak and it didn't help that the fish itself was rather bland.

    Smoked Chicken Breast with Fresh Poached Prawn & Spicy Mango Salsa - I'm sorry but wheres the spice? The diced mangoes were sinfully sweet and had nary a taste of spice. As for the chicken breast, it had but an ever so faint trace of smokiness, which I would definitely have missed if I had eaten it with the mangoes. A longer smoking time would definitely be appreciated.

    Hilton's Famous Cheesecake - Hilton has every right to be proud of its cheesecake because its really in a class of its own. Lightly moist and extremely cheesy, this classic American cheesecake is good enough to make me throw any diet plans out of the window. If you prefer the lighter chiffon variant, I would suggest you steer clear of Hilton's offering and head down to Cheesecake Cafe instead.

    A good start and a good ending. Hilton just needs to fill up the hollow center. Thanks for the invite!

    See all my pictures here.


    Rating given:Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5Rating: 3 out of 5

    810. Scratch Nails   
       05 Jun 2008 at 12:36 am
    Category: Cosmetics, Nail Salons
    claud claud says:

    Friendly staff, great service, lasting colors!

    My mum has never tried pedicure before, hence I decided to bring her for a pedicure session on Mother's day. I've passed by Scratch many times and always wanted to try their service. Called them few days before mother's day and managed to get an appointment set for Mum and myself in the evening of Mother's day.

    The salon is very big and spacious. Brightly lighted by the natural light coming from outside. The place is kept clean and to the minimum. And the furnitures used are from Ikea. Another thing that's close to my heart.

    The lady who attended to me is very outspoken and friendly. She's the supervisor of the place. If I'm not wrong, her name is Claire. She's very detail during the pedicure process. And she'll share tips on keeping our feet nice and healthy. The entire process was enjoyable and filled with giggles and laughter. She sure knows how to make her customers happy. And the final outcome of my feet was smooth and the nail coating on my toes were perfectly flawless! It looks like a new coat even after more than 2 weeks!

    As it was Mum's first time doing a pedicure after more than 40yrs. And with her daily standing and soaking of feet in water, her feet has always been hard, peeling and dry. She has got very bad cracks on her leg too. After the pedicure and a spa wrap (in white chocolate!!), her feet is as smooth as baby's feet! She loved it so much, she couldn't stop feeling and touching her own feet after the session!

    We were both very satisfied with their service and has signed up for their 6-sessions of pedicure. Looking forward to going back again soon.


    Rating given:Rating: 5 out of 5Rating: 5 out of 5Rating: 5 out of 5Rating: 5 out of 5Rating: 5 out of 5

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